Soil Fumigation

DEVELOPING PRODUCTBIOLOGICAL ALTERNATIVE TO SOIL FUMIGATION

In the Fall of 1996, Soil Technology embarked on a journey to develop a biological program that could be used as an alternative to using Methyl Bromide or other soil fumigants. We formed a Cooperative Research And Development Agreement (C.R.A.D.A.) with the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service in Salinas, California. Our focus is to determine how and why our initial biological protocol showed increased production and disease resistance on strawberries grown in San Diego.

Strawberry trial in Fallbrook without any fumigation. Specially designed biological protocol yielded approximately 85% the production of normal grower practices.

Randomized, replicated trial at the U.S.D.A. Ag Research Service station in Salinas, Ca. Determining best protocol for applying intense biological program as an alternative to methyl Bromide.

We use a procedure (patent pending) that incorporates stabilized, matured compost, cellulose digesters, organic acids, microbial inoculants, mycorrhizae, and a host of other products procured from around the world. Presently, we are working with several strawberry growers, a tomato grower, and the U.S.D.A. One of our growers has experienced increased production over the fumigated fields. We are continuing to collect data from all sites. Our current agreements and research is scheduled to continue into the 21st century.

It will take a couple more years to "fine tune" the program, but we have great expectations that we will be able to present to California agriculture, and beyond, a user friendly, non-toxic, environmentally safe soil fumigation alternative.

We are currently searching for a few growers who want to participate in the learning curve of this revolutionary process. Costs range from $850 to $1,100 per acre, and will decrease over time. Interested, qualified growers can call 800 595-7930 for more information.

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